There are a large number of microorganisms in human skin and intestines, and a new study has found unique bacterial communities within tumors. These tumor associated microorganisms can produce a molecule that can control cancer progression and enhance chemotherapy efficacy, which can help develop more effective new anti-cancer drugs. An international research team composed of institutions such as the Medical Science Laboratory of the Medical Research Council in the UK has discovered an anti-cancer metabolite produced by bacteria associated with colorectal cancer, providing new ideas for cancer treatment, including the development of novel drugs that can enhance the efficacy of existing therapies. The relevant research results have been published in the international academic journal Cell Systems. Researchers have found that a molecule called 2-methylisocitrate (2-MiCit) produced by Escherichia coli can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy drug 5-fluorouracil. Experiments conducted on nematodes, fruit flies, and human cancer cells have all confirmed the significant anti-cancer efficacy of this molecule. Research has shown that the 2-MiCit molecule works by inhibiting a key enzyme in the mitochondria of colorectal cancer cells, causing DNA damage and activating signaling pathways that can slow down cancer progression. This multi pronged attack strategy weakens cancer cells and synergizes with chemotherapy drug 5-fluorouracil, killing cancer cells more effectively than using a single compound. The researchers also collaborated with medicinal chemists to modify 2-MiCit compounds to enhance their potency. This synthetic version is more efficient in killing cancer cells, demonstrating the potential of developing new drugs based on natural microbial products. (New Society)